Cheap Apartments for Rent in Carlsbad, CA from $500 (139 Rentals)

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Ascend2300
Rent Specials
$2,471 - $5,481
Total Monthly Price

Total Monthly Price

Base Rent
$2,471 - $5,481
Total Monthly Price
Varies
1 to 3 Bedroom Apartments Available Now

Ascend2300

2300 Rising Glen WayCarlsbad, CA 92008
Affordability
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What Does “Rent Burdened” Mean? How Much Rent Is Too Much

Learn the official definition (spending 30% or more of your gross income on housing) and how to calculate your exact rent-to-income ratio. This guide offers expert tips on factoring in total housing costs (including utilities and fees) and budgeting accurately to avoid unnecessary financial strain.

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Pacific Wind
1 to 3 Bedroom Apartments

Pacific Wind

3875 Sydney WayCarlsbad, CA 92008
  • Utilities Included
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Sunny Creek Apartments
Studio to 3 Bedroom Apartments

Sunny Creek Apartments

5410 Sunny Creek RdCarlsbad, CA 92010
  • Utilities Included
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Hunters Pointe
1 to 3 Bedroom Apartments

Hunters Pointe

7270 Calle PlataCarlsbad, CA 92009
  • Utilities Included
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Cassia Heights
1 to 3 Bedroom Apartments

Cassia Heights

2005-2029 Cassia RdCarlsbad, CA 92009
  • Utilities Included
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Pacific Pines
Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments

Pacific Pines

2825 Hope AveCarlsbad, CA 92008
  • Utilities Included

Your Guide to Co-Signers: The Risks, Rewards, and Everything in Between

Thinking about getting a co-signer for your rental application? We break down what a co-signer is, the potential benefits, and the serious risks for both parties. Find out if it's the right choice for you.

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Lime Grove Apartments
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

Lime Grove Apartments

1050 Chinquapin AveCarlsbad, CA 92008
  • Utilities Included
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475 Chestnut Ave
2 Bedroom Apartments

475 Chestnut Ave

475 Chestnut AveCarlsbad, CA 92008
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The Arbors of Carlsbad
1 to 3 Bedroom Apartments

The Arbors of Carlsbad

2601 Jefferson StCarlsbad, CA 92008
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Jefferson Gardens
1 to 3 Bedroom Apartments

Jefferson Gardens

2664 Jefferson StCarlsbad, CA 92008
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The Breeze Apartments
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

The Breeze Apartments

3366 Roosevelt StCarlsbad, CA 92008
  • Utilities Included

Roommate Matching: Finding the Right Fit and Avoiding Pitfalls

When searching for a roommate, follow this list of essential steps and set clear expectations to create a solid foundation for a harmonious living situation.

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941-947 Oak Ave
Studio to 3 Bedroom Apartments

941-947 Oak Ave

941-947 Oak AveCarlsbad, CA 92008
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Merrywood Apartments
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

Merrywood Apartments

2585 Jefferson StCarlsbad, CA 92008
  • Utilities Included
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La Costa Seashore
1 to 3 Bedroom Apartments

La Costa Seashore

7552-7556 Gibraltar StCarlsbad, CA 92009
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The Hideaway
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

The Hideaway

3380 Harding StCarlsbad, CA 92008
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Cottage Row Carlsbad
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

Cottage Row Carlsbad

1400 Flame Tree LnCarlsbad, CA 92011
  • Utilities Included

Moving to North County San Diego: Costs, Commutes, and Culture

From surf culture to family-friendly neighborhoods, discover the best North County San Diego areas to rent and what they’re like day-to-day.

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Carlsbad Cabana
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

Carlsbad Cabana

2730 Jefferson StCarlsbad, CA 92008
property at 3587 Cameo Dr

$1,200

Total Monthly Price

Total Monthly Price

Base Rent
$1,200
Total Monthly Price
$1,200

1 Bedroom, 1 Bath Townhome for Rent

Available Now

3587 Cameo Dr

OceansideCA92056
property at 2432 Papyrus Ct

$1,400 - $1,600

1 Bedroom Rentals

Available Now

2432 Papyrus Ct

OceansideCA92054
property at 2540 Corbel Way

$1,850

Total Monthly Price

Total Monthly Price

Base Rent
$1,850
Total Monthly Price
$1,850

2 Bedroom, 1 Bath Home for Rent

Available Now

2540 Corbel Way

San MarcosCA92078

The Art of the Rental Viewing: What to look for during a property tour

Touring a rental? This guide helps you know exactly what to look for, from safety features to hidden flaws, so you can confidently sign your lease or keep searching.

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Carlsbad, CA Local Guide

Photo of Justin Habersaat - Editing Staff
Written By:
Justin Habersaat
Editing Staff

Cheapest Available Carlsbad Apartments for Rent

 

The cheapest available apartment rental in Carlsbad, CA is a Studio unit found at Azure Point at Encinitas - 55+ Active Adult Apartments in the North Shore Cities neighborhood priced from $1,599. Encinitas Senior Living - 55+ Active Adult Apartments in the North Shore Cities neighborhood has the second lowest priced unit, which is a Studio apartment currently listed from $1,645. Here is today’s list of the most affordable Carlsbad apartments for rent:

Apartment ListingModel NameBed/BathPriced From
Azure Point at Encinitas - 55+ Active Adult ApartmentsStudioStudio,1BA$1,599
Encinitas Senior Living - 55+ Active Adult ApartmentsStudio - S1Studio,1BA$1,645
Rancho Carrillo Apartments | Affordable Apartments2 Bedroom2BR,2BA$1,781
Sycamore Ridge Apartments1 Bedroom/ 1 Bath1BR,1BA$1,925
Suncrest Ridge1x11BR,1BA$1,950
Bella TerraPlan A1BR,1BA$1,966
The Avenue at CarlsbadStudioStudio,1BA$2,012
Ascot Village1BR/1.0BA1BR,1BA$2,013
Creekwood VillasSTUDIOStudio,1BA$2,032
Camino ColonyOne Bed One Bath1BR,1BA$2,050

Best Value Apartments for Rent in Carlsbad, CA

As of April 24, 2026 the best value apartment in the Carlsbad area is the $2.10 price per square foot 4 Beds, 4.5 baths Model at 3256 Sitio Tortuga in the in the Olivenhain neighborhood starting from $8,950. The second greatest value Carlsbad apartment is the The Florence Model at Piazza D'Oro starting at $3,762 with a $2.61 price per square foot in the Mira Costa neighborhood. Here is today’s list of the best values for Carlsbad apartments based on price per square foot:

Apartment ListingModel NameBed/BathPrice Per Sq.Ft.
3256 Sitio Tortuga4 Beds, 4.5 baths4BR,4.5BA$2.10
Piazza D'OroThe Florence2BR,2.5BA$2.61
BluWater Crossing1x2RES-13671BR,2BA$2.74
Rancho Carrillo Apartments | Affordable Apartments3 Bedroom3BR,2BA$1.98
Briarcrest Apartments2 Beds, 1 Bath Model2BR,1BA$2.00
Shadow Ridge Apartments2x22BR,2BA$2.66
555 Greenbrier Dr, Unit 38555 Greenbrier Dr2BR,1BA$2.40
Stoneybrook Apartments2 Bed /1 Bath2BR,1BA$2.32
Elan Shadowridge Meadows2 Bed 2 Bath B2BR,2BA$2.74
Sycamore Ridge Apartments1 Bedroom/ 1 Bath1BR,1BA$2.67

10 Hidden Costs of Renting You Should Budget for Before Signing a Lease

Avoid financial stress when renting. Learn about the 10 most common hidden costs—from pet fees to utilities—you must budget for before you sign a lease.

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Don't Settle: How to Negotiate Your Apartment Lease and Save Money

Discover the insider tips from an attorney and real estate agent on how to negotiate your next apartment lease. Find out what's on the table and what's not, so you can save money and get the best terms possible.

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The Ultimate Long-Distance Moving Checklist: Tips from a Real Estate Pro

Moving is tough, especially long-distance. Learn how to minimize stress & expenses with proven strategies from a real estate pro, covering everything from logistics to finances.

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Cash or credit? Understanding the Importance of Credit Score in Real Estate and Renting

Discover how your credit score impacts your ability to lease or buy a home. Learn how credit scores are determined, how to check yours, and strategies to improve it for real estate success.

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The Student Renter's Ultimate Guide to Finding the Perfect San Diego Neighborhood to Rent

Learn About the Best Neighborhoods to Rent Near College Campuses in San Diego, CA | Find San Diego Off-Campus Student Housing

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Carlsbad Overview

Located about 80 miles south of Los Angeles and just a mere 30 or so miles from the hub of San Diego, Carlsbad is a thriving locale in the great state of California with much to offer. Known as 'The Village by the Sea' among locals, this luxurious destination is a prime slice of tourism-based West Coast gold, offering stunning ocean views and more than its fair share of pampering amenities.

Why live in Carlsbad, CA?

One of the most upscale cities in all of Calfiornia, a rental in Carlsbad is a sure sign you are on the path to success. From stunning water views to impressive schools, nearby theme park excitement to a plethora of world-class restaurant options, this prime slice of sunny west coast real estate is about as ideal as it gets when you talk about Cali living.

Carlsbad, CA
Population: 115,877

Ranked #250

in US Census Population by City

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Best Local Schools in
Carlsbad, CA

School data provided by Great Schools

Remember the 3 Rules of Real Estate:
Location, Location, Location!

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Frequently Asked Questions about Cheap Carlsbad Apartments

What is the Cheapest Studio apartment in Carlsbad?

Currently the most affordable Cheap Studio Apartment in Carlsbad is at Azure Point at Encinitas - 55+ Active Adult Apartments listed at $1,599.

How much is rent for a Cheap One Bedroom Carlsbad Apartment?

The lowest price for a Cheap One Bedroom Carlsbad Apartment is $1,795 at Azure Point at Encinitas - 55+ Active Adult Apartments.

What is the lowest price for a Cheap Two Bedroom Carlsbad Apartment for rent?

Today's best deal for a Cheap Two Bedroom Apartment in Carlsbad is starting from $1,781 at Rancho Carrillo Apartments | Affordable Apartments.

What is the most affordable Carlsbad Three Bedroom Apartment?

The best deal on a cheap Carlsbad Three Bedroom Apartment rental is at Rancho Carrillo Apartments | Affordable Apartments and starts from $2,479.

Expert Rental Resources

The rental experts at ApartmentHomeLiving.com provide you with top advice, tools, and tips for understanding the leasing process and finding the perfect rental. Here are a few helpful rental and leasing articles from our experts to guide you on your search.

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